Using a large data set for 167 developed countries and emerging and transition economies, the authors estimate probability models (probit and ordered probit) based on available de jure and de facto classifications for 1970–1995 and 1995–1999. They show that economic openness, trade...

Russia belongs to the energy superpowers. It is a country rich on raw materials and selfsufficient state that possesses the largest gas reserves, second largest coal reserves and seventh largest oil reserves in the world. Raw materials and energy sources still form so-called backbone of the...